22 Jan
1999
22 Jan
'99
6:49 p.m.
Given that Classic Computer(s) list members can agree on a standard for the
application of the term "classic" with regard to collected computing (and
other)
hardware, is that as far as it goes? Perhaps there is more to value in the
discussion.
The act in which we all participate, the collection, repair and restoration,
and
operation of collectable computers and software has become vogue. Hence,
given our collective expertise on this matter, it is our opportunity to
effect the
language and propriety of our activity. I am sure that many would benefit
from
a formal presentation of the collective view of the propriety of applying
the term
"classic" to a computer, etc.
To do so would not be different from the same activity as applied to
antiques,
numismatics, philately, etc. It is exactly in this way that these, and
other, standards
of collectability (a measure of "value" not necessarily economically
justifiable)
are derived, becoming manifest. I think that we would be doing ourselves
and
our activity justice.
What say you?
William R. Buckley
22 Jan
22 Jan
7 p.m.
On Sat, 23 Jan 1999, Buck Savage wrote:
To do so would not be different from the same activity
as applied to
antiques, numismatics, philately, etc. It is exactly in this way that
these, and other, standards of collectability (a measure of "value" not
necessarily economically justifiable) are derived, becoming manifest.
A "universal" rating/certification system, similar to the way coins are
graded, would be ideal. But I don't think you'll ever get this group to
agree on anything -- just do it! (And then sell a book.)
Forget the word "classic". A guide that gives production numbers,
variations, years, criteria to judge condition, price, etc. would be cool
-- I'd buy one, and I'd buy a new copy every year as you updated prices
and other info.
Start with Hans P's list of machines (and pay him royalties).
-- Doug
23 Jan
23 Jan
2:03 a.m.
Doug wrote:
Forget the word "classic". A guide that gives production numbers,
variations, years, criteria to judge condition, price, etc. would be cool
That is for sure!!! We have production numbers from reliable sources for
several computers including the Sol-20 (10,000 w/ ~5000 kits, 5000 assm.),
Lobo Max-80 (5000), and several others that skip my mind. The variations
are a really important point to bring out, at least from the standpoint of
collectors as it helps to date the units. Another thing that would be VERY
useful is a *brief* setup guide to show how to test if the computer is
actually working.
I have a friend of mine who has been compiling over the last 10 years or so
a price guide to Amateur Radio Equipment (and I harass him regularly to
publish it.) He has some very specific criteria as to grading the condition
of equipment that helps to take out a lot of the subjective element. But
keeping up with the pricing can be a full time job, and a network of people
working together on a common database might be a good approach. BTW, that
is one reason I consider ebay and similar sites to be so important; they
provide some real life pricing of vintage equipment. Whether someone agrees
or not with that pricing is irrelevant.
6:27 a.m.
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1:42 a.m.
Buck Savage wrote:
The act in which we all participate, the collection,
repair and restoration,
and operation of collectable computers and software has become vogue. Hence,
given our collective expertise on this matter, it is our opportunity to
effect the language and propriety of our activity. I am sure that many would benefit
from a formal presentation of the collective view of the propriety of applying
the term "classic" to a computer, etc.
I fully agree. We have one of the Karpeles Manuscript Librarys here in
Santa Barbara, and one of my "to do" items is to talk to the person who
started it. I was talking to one of the people down there who indicated Mr.
(Dr.?) Karpeles started buying manuscripts about 20 years ago, and is one of
the people responsible for raising the awareness of their historical value.
(BTW, they also have the Apollo onboard computer, or at least part of it, on
display down there now.) Some of the things they are doing are what Sam has
done with VCF (displays of important documents, frequent talks on pertinent
subjects, etc.) and thus raising public awareness of their importance.
9466
days inactive
9466
days old
4 comments
4 participants
participants (4)
-
ard＠p850ug1.demon.co.uk -
doug＠blinkenlights.com -
hhacker＠gte.net -
marvin＠rain.org